To no surprise the usuals were included. Craigie on Main in Cambridge finished 10th, B. Good downtown finished 8th and BU stable UBurger ultimately came out the favorite at #1. Nothing new, right? One inclusion though downright seemed like a slap in the face to me.

Ten months removed from a city I’d grown to call home; gone were Brooklyn and Astoria neighborhoods now replaced with Squares. Fenway overtook Yankee Stadium as my summer go-to and the MBTA became my new less dependable subway. Old NYC favorites like Wogies, Itzocan, and Burger Joint would need to be replaced and that they have. With all its stereotypes, Boston brings a very sharp steak knife to the food fight and is pound for pound a city that hosts some fantastic restaurants.

So while you’re being told to eat at staples like a Legal Seafood or other chains; these are the 10 places you must visit in Boston. No matter if its overnight, a day trip or week-long vacation, this is my beginners guide to eating like a local in Boston.

While were not ranking these per se, Toro is our absolute must for anyone headed this fine city. It’s the one restaurant we’d wait we’ve waited three hours for a table and left completely satisfied with our decision. Go early, put your name in and have a few drinks at the bar or down the street at the less crowded African restaurant. Don’t worry, Toro will call your mobile when they’re ready for you.

Bring a group because once seated, keep in mind the menu is tapas style so order anything and everything at will. Nothing will lead astray or down a dark rabbit hole. But if you want that life changing experience, go all in on the bone marrow.